What's happening for Culture Night in Laois this year

Culture Night in Laois this year will bring a lively evening of music, art, and performance to venues across the county. Part of the national Culture Night initiative, the event allows people to explore local galleries, theatres, museums and community spaces, many of which open their doors for free.

This year's programme features a wide mix of activities, with something on offer whether you're after live music, hands-on workshops or a quiet look round a historic building.

Here are a handful of the events taking place in Laois:

The Drawing Room Opera Company will perform Irish favourites, musical theatre songs and operatic classics at Portlaoise Library. Soprano Katy Kelly and baritone Brendan Collins will be accompanied by Jillian Saunders on piano. Booking is necessary for this event.

Folk singer Emer Dunne will perform Irish folk classics as well as lesser-known gems and contemporary songswith Derek Dunne on guitar and Aidan Connolly on fiddle. Stories, songs and music will be shared at St. Brigid's Church of Ireland in Rosenallis.

Meanwhile, at Portarlington Market House, a spinning demonstration will be presented by Crafty Dreams Studio. Wool from sheep and "perhaps even alpaca[s]" will be spun on wheels and spindles, revealing the heritage craft behind Ireland's famously high-quality wool.

Culture Night is free to attend and runs from early evening until late, with most venues open between 5pm and 9pm unless stated otherwise. Some events may require booking in advance, so check with individual venues for details. For the full list of participating venues and events in Laois, visit culturenight.ie.